Jim Olafson
7/25/1938 - 4/7/2025

James (“Jim”) Warren Olafson, 86, passed away on April 7, 2025, at Turkey Run Ranch in Kerrville, Texas.

Jim was born on July 25, 1938, to Warren and Ruby (Earl) Olafson in Austin, Minnesota. He was blessed with a twin sister, Joan, and grew up alongside his older sister Suzanne, younger sister Judy, and youngest brother Tommy. While the family lived in California briefly, Jim spent most of his early years in San Antonio, Texas. He considered the Hill Country his true home.

A proud graduate of Jefferson High School (Class of 1957, San Antonio), Jim went on to attend Trinity University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Home Building in 1966.

Jim met his wife to be, Bonnie Hemphill, on a blind date orchestrated by their sisters. They married in 1963 and began a remarkable partnership that would span over six decades. Jim was a devoted family man who took great pride in his children, and he and Bonnie raised their family in Kerrville. He is survived by his beloved wife Bonnie; his children Jennifer and Tommy (wife Pia); granddaughters Amelia, Lily, and June; his sister Suzanne; and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Joan, Judy and Tommy.

Jim's entrepreneurial spirit and expertise in construction led him to found General Homes Corporation in 1973. Under his leadership, the company flourished and went public in 1983, establishing him as a respected figure in the home building industry. He successfully sold the company in 1998.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jim had a deep love for ranching and spent countless hours enjoying the outdoors through hunting and fishing. He generously opened his ranches to family and friends, always welcoming them to share in these activities. These passions brought him great joy and connected him to the Texas landscape he loved.

Throughout his life, Jim exemplified the values of hard work, generosity, integrity, modesty, and dedication to family. His legacy lives on through the homes he built, the company he created, the memories made on his ranches, and most importantly, the loving family he raised.

A memorial service celebrating Jim's life will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Grimes Funeral Chapels.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jim's memory to Christian Assistance Ministry (https://kerrcam.com/) or Hill Country Youth Ranch (https://youth-ranch.org/donate).
Jim's wisdom, humor, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Obituary Provided By:

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